PLAYMAKER: Dallas Cowboys Eye DYNAMIC Linebacker | Could Jacob Rodriguez Be The Pick At 20?

The Locked On Cowboys podcast dives into the Dallas Cowboys' potential draft strategy ahead of the 2026 NFL Draft, focusing on their need for linebacker help and the emerging name of Jacob Rodriguez as a top target at pick 20. Hosts Marcus Mosher and Landon McCool analyze Rodriguez’s elite production—four interceptions, 10 forced fumbles, six sacks, and 25.5 tackles for loss over two seasons—highlighting his playmaking ability, athleticism (4.57 40-yard dash, 6-9-3 cone), and Heisman-caliber potential as a former quarterback. They debate whether the Cowboys would trade up or move back, emphasizing that Rodriguez’s dynamic skill set could address both linebacker depth and turnover creation, a key emphasis for head coach Brian Schottenheimer. The discussion expands to other prospects: Emmanuel McNeil-Warren, a versatile safety with size, athleticism, and 11 forced fumbles in three seasons, who could thrive in the Cowboys’ modern nickel scheme; and Arvel Reese, a blue-chip linebacker/pass rusher with a 30 visit, whose potential fall to pick 20 makes him a tantalizing trade-up target despite positional value concerns. The hosts conclude that the Cowboys have multiple high-upside options and could leverage their two first-round picks to address multiple needs, especially with a defense built to maximize a player’s upside. Key takeaways include: 1) Jacob Rodriguez offers rare playmaking production and elite athleticism for a linebacker, making him a top-tier fit despite his age; 2) Emmanuel McNeil-Warren’s size, instincts, and forced fumble record make him a perfect fit for the Cowboys’ hybrid slot safety role; 3) Arvel Reese, while likely a top-2 pick, could be a trade target if he falls due to team-specific preferences; 4) The Cowboys’ defensive scheme uniquely enables high-floor development for elite athletes; 5) Trading back from 20 to 29 could allow them to target multiple high-value players in the 20s; 6) The team’s depth at safety and linebacker creates flexibility; 7) The combination of production, athleticism, and scheme fit makes Rodriguez a compelling late-first-round option; 8) The Cowboys’ ability to move around with two first-round picks gives them strategic leverage. The overall sentiment is optimistic, with hosts expressing strong enthusiasm for the draft class and the team’s potential to make impactful selections.